We Exist in the Space Between Us

Week 3 came as the first week of almost “normal” classes and structure at WSS… ALMOST! On Tuesday the 16th of February, the Wirreanda Wellbeing Team, with the help of some inspiring guest speakers, presented a whole-staff Wellbeing Conference in the Learning Hub. There, staff had the opportunity to be exposed to ideas and practice of holistic wellbeing, the power of mindfulness, restorative practice, positive relationships and gratitude. It was an enlightening day, facilitated by the open and inspiring environment that is unique to the Learning Hub. It was particularly engaging and moving to hear genuine expression of gratitude towards teaching staff from our very own Student Leader captains.

Here are a few snapshots of our student leaders who spoke proudly and confidently in front of the entire staff. Telling their personal stories of why they are grateful for teachers at WSS. We felt the love!

This got me thinking about all of the things that I am grateful for, and my workplace is certainly one of them! As a new Lead Teacher in the Learning Hub, I have been inundated with new information, teaching styles, technology, students, staff, and innovative ideas. We are so lucky at WSS to have such a supportive space where this positive teaching and learning can take place. There are endless opportunities for ongoing learning and growth, for students and teachers alike.

In Week 3 most classes are well into the swing of things. A majority of classes are signed up to Google Classroom; an innovative, online application that allows teachers and students to instantly share and access information, produce and complete assessment tasks, receive grades and feedback, and communicate. This is a huge step forward and it is encouraging to see all of the teachers and students that are taking it on board as a new avenue for teaching and learning. Using Google Classroom and Google Docs has been particularly helpful for our senior students – Year 11 Integrated Learning students have had access to numerous resources to help them with their critical research skills, whilst one of our Year 12 English classes have been sharing their drafts of text production recounts with a variety of teachers and receive instant feedback on their work. The interactions between staff and students has started to build a very supportive culture within the Learning Hub – everyone willing to lend a hand and students really striving to enhance their learning.

Some things to look forward to in the coming weeks around the Learning Hub include an SSC Logo Challenge that calls upon students to express their creative flair by designing a new logo for the Specialist Sports Course. Winners are awarded with a $100 voucher (and whole-school bragging rights of course!)

A reminder: Miss Buse, in conjunction with The Smith Family, are holding a Homework Clubfor any students needing to catch up with work or get some one-on-one support, beginning Week 4 and held from 3.15-4.30pm on Wednesdays. Students can find consent forms from Home Group teachers, the Learning Hub Leaders or Alison Buse.

Lastly, Jess Norman, a new and bright addition to staff, has offered her time after school (3.15pm – 4.00pm) on Thursdays and Fridays to support any students who need to catch up or use the amazing technology that is offered in the Hub. This will start from Week 5, Thursday 3rd and Friday 4th March.

I’m going to leave you here with a short clip that is sure to make you smile. Remember to take a moment to consider what you are grateful for.

What am I grateful for? The opportunity to work in the Learning Hub at WSS!